A Travel Price Comparison for France Montpellier vs. Cannes for Food, Old Town, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Montpellier or Cannes?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Montpellier and Cannes. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful, friendly, and historic city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy, opulent , and luxury resort city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Montpellier and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Montpellier or Cannes?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Cannes than Montpellier. While Montpellier is larger than Cannes, Cannes has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Cannes is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Montpellier attracts visitors for its museums and historical sights. Cannes is more touristy than Montpellier and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also well known for Boulevard de la Croisette. Montpellier is famous for its relaxed atmosphere, grand boulevards, and authentic personality.

How is Montpellier different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cannes and Montpellier. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Montpellier or Cannes?

Montpellier is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Montpellier specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, the city has many landmarks and monuments. Also make sure you visit Musée Fabre and Saint-Pierre Cathedral.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Montpellier or Cannes? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Cannes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Montpellier. The dishes are made with fresh ingredients produced in the agricultural areas just outside of town. The area is known for its seafood and fish stews.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Nightlife?

Cannes is a great destination for its evening party scene. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The people in Cannes know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

If you're looking for night time activities Montpellier has a few options to choose from. The weather is mild, making for a nice evening out. The population is also young, so you can expect a lot of activity during the evenings, particularly in the area around Place Jean Jaurés. Make sure you enjoy local wine and champagne while you're in town.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Music?

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its music scene. However, Montpellier is not a live music destination.

In Cannes you'll find nightly musicians performing at a variety of venues. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Montpellier is not a live music destination.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Resorts?

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Cannes for its luxury resorts. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Montpellier is not a resort destination.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Montpellier is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Montpellier and Cannes both offer high quality beaches.

Many people visit Montpellier for it's beautiful beaches. The coastline near Montpellier feels pristine and beautiful. You can also visit Villeneuve-lès-Maguelone to the southwest of town, which is a protected area.

Cannes is considered a top beach destination. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Montpellier is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its historic old town.

Montpellier offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. Known as L'Écusson the town's old town dates back to the Middle Ages. It is a pedestrian area that is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and churches.

Many visitors go to Cannes to see the historical old town. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Is the Shopping Better in Montpellier or Cannes?

Cannes is an unbeatable place for its shopping areas. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Cannes is a world class destination for shoppers. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Montpellier. Head to Rue de la Loge for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Families?

Both Montpellier and Cannes are nice family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Montpellier. Popular activities for kids include taking a ride on the carousel in the Comedie, visiting the playground - Jardin Champs de Mars, and visiting the botanical garden - Jardin des Plantes.

Cannes offers lots of family activities. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Couples?

Cannes is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Montpellier is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Cannes is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Montpellier is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Rich in history and beautiful architecture, this city offers a romantic setting for a great couple's getaway.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Montpellier is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Montpellier is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With a young population and a number of hostels to choose from, Montpellier attracts its share of backpackers.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Students?

Montpellier is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Cannes is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Montpellier. Montpellier is a popular university town that is home to many trendy university students. It's also where you'll find the youngest population of any city in France.

Cannes is not popular with students.

Is Montpellier or Cannes Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Montpellier is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Montpellier offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are a number of options for getting around town including the tramway, bus, and tourist train.

Cannes has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Montpellier or Cannes a more walkable city?

Montpellier and Cannes both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Montpellier is a very walkable destination. Many of the sights and attractions are easily accessible on foot and can be enjoyed as part of a self-guided walking tour.

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

For even more information, also check out Is Montpellier Worth Visiting? and Is Cannes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Montpellier?

How long in Montpellier or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Montpellier or Cannes. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Cannes due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Montpellier, and 2-4 days is enough time in Cannes.

Families should spend more time in Cannes than Montpellier. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cannes, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Cannes than Montpellier. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cannes that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Montpellier than Cannes if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Montpellier.

One day in Montpellier or Cannes?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Montpellier. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the glitzy resort city of Cannes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Montpellier or Cannes?

Montpellier is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the opulent destination of Cannes. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This resort city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Montpellier or Cannes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Montpellier. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The opulent resort city of Cannes offers shopping and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Montpellier or Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Montpellier. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Cannes. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best River Cruises in France, and The Best Bicycle Tours in France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Montpellier and Cannes, we can see that Cannes is more expensive. And not only is Montpellier much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Montpellier would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Montpellier and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Cannes would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cannes than you might in Montpellier.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Montpellier Expensive? and Is Cannes Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Montpellier or Cannes?

Montpellier has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Cannes. When comparing the sizes of Montpellier and Cannes, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Montpellier or Cannes?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cannes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Montpellier and Cannes. Many travelers come to Montpellier for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Cannes in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Cannes in the summer. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Montpellier usually receives more rain than Cannes. Montpellier gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Montpellier as well as Cannes. Many visitors come to Montpellier in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Montpellier is around the same temperature as Cannes. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Montpellier in October average around 15°C (60°F), and Cannes averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Cannes. Montpellier receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Montpellier usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Cannes. Montpellier gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Montpellier are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Montpellier for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Montpellier is generally cooler than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Montpellier average around 7°C (44°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In January, Montpellier usually receives less rain than Cannes. Montpellier gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Montpellier or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Montpellier during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Montpellier because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

Montpellier is around the same temperature as Cannes in the spring. The daily temperature in Montpellier averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Cannes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Montpellier usually gets less rain in April than Cannes. Montpellier gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cannes and Montpellier